Currency in Congo: XAF Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in the Congo with the Central African franc.
What's in this Congo currency guide?
What currency is used in the Congo?
The official currency of the Congo (country code: CG) is the Central African franc, with symbol FCFA and currency code XAF.
What is a good Central African franc exchange rate?
The BestExchangeRates.com currency comparison table below helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of rates, enter your transaction type, currencies and amount then click ‘GET RATES’:
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Good things to know about the Central African franc
Here are some things you might want to know about the Central African CFA franc:
- The Central African CFA franc (XAF) is the currency of six independent states in Central Africa - Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon.
- It is represented by the symbol "FCFA" and is abbreviated as XAF.
- The CFA franc was introduced in 1945, replacing the French Equatorial African franc. It is pegged to the euro at a fixed exchange rate of 1 euro = 655.957 CFA francs.
- The value of the CFA franc is guaranteed by the Central Bank of Central African States, which is responsible for issuing and managing the currency.
- The physical currency consists of coins and banknotes. The coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 CFA francs. The banknotes come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 CFA francs.
- The banknotes feature images of famous historical figures, such as King Béhanzin and King Njoya. The design of the currency is constantly being updated, so the physical appearance of the coins and banknotes may vary slightly over time.
- The currency was introduced to the previously French colonies in Equatorial Africa in 1945, replacing the French Equatorial African franc. The currency continued in use when these colonies gained their independence. Equatorial Guinea, the only former Spanish colony in the zone, adopted the CFA franc in 1984.
- Both XAF and XOF currencies are referred to as the CFA franc.
For more XAF information check out our selection of Central African franc news and guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in the Congo?
The domestic currency in the Congo is the Central African franc.
What is the Central African franc currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Central African franc is XAF — symbol is FCFA.
What does the Central African franc look like?
Here is an example Central African franc banknote:
Which countries use the Central African franc?
It is the domestic currency in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon.
Is the Central African franc a closed currency?
No, the Central African franc is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and XAF?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to XAF (US dollar to Central African franc)*.
| USD | XAF |
|---|---|
| $ 1,000 | FCFA 556,900 |
| $ 5,000 | FCFA 2,784,500 |
| $ 20,000 | FCFA 11,138,000 |
| $ 100,000 | FCFA 55,690,000 |
| USD | XAF |
|---|---|
| $ 1.7960 | FCFA 1,000 |
| $ 8.9800 | FCFA 5,000 |
| $ 35.92 | FCFA 20,000 |
| $ 179.60 | FCFA 100,000 |
More amounts
*Converted at the current USDXAF interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for the Congo
Using Wise for Central African franc travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in Central African franc otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Central African franc cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the XAF cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Congo: Travel Guide
Traveling to the Congo requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
The Republic of Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, is a country located in Central Africa, bordered by Gabon to the west, Cameroon to the northwest, the Central African Republic to the northeast, the Democratic Republic of Congo to the southeast, and the Angola to the south.
Travel Tips for the Congo
Traveling to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) can be challenging due to ongoing instability and security concerns in certain parts of the country. Here are some travel tips to consider if you're planning a trip to the DRC:
Check travel advisories: Before planning your trip, check the latest travel advisories and security information from your government's foreign affairs department or equivalent, to stay informed about the most current safety and security risks.
Get vaccinated: Check with your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist to ensure that you are up to date on any required or recommended vaccinations for travel to the DRC.
Plan your route carefully: Avoid traveling to areas that are considered to be dangerous or that have ongoing conflicts. Some parts of the country are completely off-limits to foreigners, so be sure to plan your route and accommodations accordingly.
Be prepared for unexpected delays: The DRC has a poorly developed infrastructure and transport can be unreliable. Be prepared for flight delays, cancellations, or other transport-related issues.
Be aware of the local laws: Be sure to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of the DRC to avoid any misunderstandings or legal issues.
Have emergency contact: Make sure someone know your itinerary, and contact information for emergency and consular assistance.
Have contact of good medical facilities and emergency medical evacuation services in case of any emergency situation.
It's worth noting that safety conditions can change quickly in the DRC, and that the security situation can vary significantly between different regions of the country. It's important to be aware of the current situation and to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Everyday Costs in in Congo
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Congo? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Traveling to the Republic of Congo (ISO code: CG) – What to Expect on a Mid-Range Budget
For travelers planning a one-week mid-range stay in the Republic of Congo, a budget of approximately 700,000 to 1,000,000 XAF (CFA Franc) should suffice, allowing for comfortable lodging, dining, and activities. Here’s a quick snapshot of typical daily expenses you can expect in local currency:
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: ~5,000 XAF
- ☕ Coffee: ~1,500 XAF
- 🚍 Public transport fare: ~300 XAF
- 📶 Prepaid SIM card: ~10,000 XAF
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: ~40,000 - 70,000 XAF
Overall, the cost of visiting the Republic of Congo is generally average compared to other destinations. When contrasted with the United States, travelers will find that dining and local transportation are notably more affordable; however, accommodation can be at par or slightly cheaper. Compared to Australia, the Republic of Congo provides a more budget-friendly experience, especially for local dining and transport.
Expats Living in the Republic of Congo – Monthly Cost Overview and Financial Tips
Expats can expect to spend approximately 1,200,000 to 1,800,000 XAF monthly, depending on lifestyle choices, housing, and personal spending habits. Here’s a breakdown of typical living costs in local currency:
- Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: ~250,000 - 400,000 XAF
- Groceries: ~200,000 XAF
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet): ~75,000 XAF
- Transportation: ~30,000 - 50,000 XAF
When it comes to banking and currency management, it's advisable for expats to use local banks for daily transactions, as ATMs are widely available but may charge higher withdrawal fees. Using cards is generally safe; however, it's best to carry cash, especially in rural areas. For sending or receiving money from home, online transfer services like Wise or OFX can offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional bank currency exchanges. Locally exchanging money may offer convenience, but could lead to lower rates, so it's important to compare options beforehand to maximize your funds.
USD/XAF Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/XAF change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Recent Central African franc Market News
The Central African CFA franc has a fixed rate of exchange with the euro, set at 1 euro = 655.957 CFA francs, so the EURCFA exchange rate should not fluctuate very much.
For more XAF information read our News and guides to the Central African franc.
Send Money to the Congo - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to the Congo you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to the Congo
When sending money to the Congo it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Central African franc amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted XAF amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in the Congo.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Central African franc deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in the Congo
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Central African franc currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the XAF exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Central African franc bank account: A local XAF bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in the Congo. It may also be more convenient to use a local XAF bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in the Congo. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in the Congo. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in the Congo, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in the Congo.
The country has a population of around 4.8 million people and its economy is largely based on its natural resources, particularly its oil and gas sector. Congo is also rich in other mineral resources such as gold, diamonds, and timber.
Despite its significant natural resources, the Republic of Congo's economy is not as developed as it could be, and the country ranks near the bottom of most measures of human development and economic development. The country has a history of political instability and corruption, which have hindered its economic development.
The oil sector is the main source of revenue for the government. Oil production has been on a decline since the late 2000s and the government has been taking steps to diversify the economy by investing in other sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and mining.
The country has a relatively low unemployment rate and the government has made an effort to improve infrastructure and provide basic services such as education and health care to the population, but they are still insufficient.
The country has made an effort to improve its economic situation, but much remains to be done to improve its economic situation, the country has been working with international organizations such as the World Bank and IMF, as well as other countries, to improve its economy and build a more stable and prosperous future for its citizens.